Join Us! How to Apply

The application process is the same for both M.A. and Ph.D. applications.

In addition to all documents and information necessary for applying for admittance as set forth by the graduate school of the university, the following items are required to be included in all student applications.

1. A completed application submitted through the UW-Madison Graduate School’s online application portal. The application fee can be paid online. Select “Interdisciplinary Theatre Studies” for the Academic Program.
2. Upload a PDF copy of your most recent academic transcripts (both bachelor’s and master’s if applicable) in the application for the initial review process.
   • Our Graduate School will send an instructional email request, for official transcripts, to only those applicants which whom we recommend for admission.
3. A one- to two-page Reasons for Graduate Study statement explaining the candidate’s reasons for pursuing graduate study. Statements should include in specific detail the applicant’s area of interest, possible research questions and methodological focus, and future goals. This should be uploaded to the online Graduate School application.
4. A PDF response (max. 1000 words) to the supplemental question: “What lessons have you learned from your background and life experiences, and what skills or abilities have you acquired from those lessons?”
5. A PDF writing sample of 15-20 pages (max. 7000 words). This writing sample should demonstrate critical thinking and writing to the applicant’s best advantage. Writing samples reflecting the applicant’s skills in theatre and drama research are preferred.
6. Three letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation should be submitted electronically through the Graduate School application. These letters should address the candidate’s potential in the chosen field of study, in addition to other observations of the candidate’s experience, skills, and abilities. If possible, references should be from more than one institution or similar individual source.
7. A current CV specific to the student’s work in theatre and drama.
8. Application fee
   • Pay online via the Graduate School Application or send payment to:
     • The Graduate School
       University of Wisconsin-Madison
       Room 228 Bascom Hall
       Madison, WI 53706
9. (International applications only) English Proficiency: International degree-seeking applicants will need to prove English proficiency. See the Graduate School requirements for more information.

Please note that we no longer require the GRE exam.

Graduate Guide: M.A. Application

Graduate Guide: Ph.D. Application

Watch your application status page through MyUW for missing checklist items or additional information. Any requests for information or changes in your status during the program’s review will be noted on the page.

Be sure to activate your NetID in MyUW to ensure continued processing of your application.  Contact webapp@grad.wisc.edu if you do not receive the email with instructions within two days of final submission of your application.

Each application is reviewed by both Department and Graduate School admissions examiners. Applicants recommended by Interdisciplinary Theatre Studies to the Graduate School for admission are required to submit official transcripts. The Graduate School will request official transcripts if admission is recommended by program.  The Graduate School determines admission; however, no student will be admitted without a favorable department recommendation. Once admitted, the student will receive confirmation from the Graduate School.

Admissions interviews will be conducted virtually with applicants who are selected to interview.

On campus interviews are not required for admission, but encouraged for those students able to arrange a visit to campus. Visiting students will meet program faculty and students, and possibly attend a class. In order to arrange a visit, contact the program director.

For specific information on application and visa requirements for international students, please visit the UW-Madison Graduate School international applicant page.

For information about the international experience in the Interdisciplinary Theatre Studies Program, please contact the program director.